People in Labrador are being advised to be vigilant over the next few weeks to protect pets and themselves from rabies.

A dog in Hopedale which came into contact with a fox has tested positive for rabies, which, if left untreated, is nearly always fatal.

Residents should avoid touching or feeding stray or wild animals. They’re also asked to keep domestic animals, such as dogs and cats, tethered or in an enclosed area while outdoors, and to supervise them.

As well, people are being encouraged to watch for signs of rabies in their animals, to get pets vaccinated, and to report all sightings of animals acting strangely.

Any person in Labrador recently bitten or scratched by a dog or fox should contact a community clinic to be assessed.

Newfoundland and Labrador’s Chief Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Janice Fitzgerald, says the virus, after entering a person’s body, will make its way to the brain where it begins the replication process. However, if caught early, post-exposure treatment is quite effective.